Case studies: Temporary lecturer: Irene Lawrie

Irene graduated in 2010 with a BA (Hons) in Social Sciences from Perth College, University of the Highlands and Islands. 

Since graduating I have had the opportunity to lecture on a temporary basis within the Health and Social Science department at Perth College in psychology, sociology and criminology. In preparation for my role as temporary lecturer, I completed my initial teacher training (ITT) course and subsequently, the Teaching in Further Education Higher National Units 'Delivery and Assessment' and 'Planning'. My next aim will be to commence the Teaching Qualification in Further Education (TQFE).

Studying social sciences has allowed me the flexibility to teach over the range of subjects within the degree including psychology, sociology politics and criminology. While I am currently lecturing at Higher and HNC level, I will need to consider a Masters or PhD qualification in order to work at higher levels within the degree structure.
 
Currently, a typical day consists of perhaps two or three two-hour, face-to-face lectures in psychology or sociology. Prior to the lecture, the previous lesson's homework has to be marked and a lesson plan has to be completed in conjunction with the week-to-week course plan. A variety of course materials also have to be prepared in advance, such as PowerPoint presentations, hand-outs, class activities, and formative and summative assessments to monitor that class objectives are being met. While teaching a variety of subjects at different levels is very stimulating and hugely rewarding in terms of the amount of experience gained, it is also challenging on a day-to-day basis in terms of the organisation of different course materials, ensuring students are prepared for assessments, the marking of assessments and giving of feedback, and the different teaching approaches required for different levels. In addition to classes, I am also involved in course committee meetings, internal verification, college initiatives such as peer review, and as many training workshops as possible.

It is very rewarding to lecture within the social science sector in that the work is directly related to my area of study. While commencing lecturing is a steep learning curve, being a recent graduate is advantageous in that, not only are the module materials familiar and a source of enthusiasm for me, I can also relate to the student learning experience.     

Working within the social science sector has also given me the opportunity to be involved in different research projects investigating the influence of aspects such as confidence, motivation, feedback and text format on learning. This has also been beneficial in providing useful insight into what may be required at Masters or PhD level.

The role of temporary lecturer requires flexibility. It is however an excellent opportunity to obtain a wide range of experience. It is hugely rewarding to be involved in the learning experience from a different perspective, from the other side of the fence. In developing my role, not only do I want to build on my existing teaching experience but also aim towards a further teaching qualification (TQFE) and postgraduate study at Masters or PhD level.